Trigeminal-Palatal Synkinesis

A patient developed synkinetic movements of facial musculature and “crocodile tears” following the removal of a large acoustic neurinoma. A reflex palatal movement resulted from tactile stimulation of the lower part of the face as well. Analysis of the palatal movement suggested action of the tensor veli palatini muscle, acting in isolation. We believe the palatal contraction represents a synkinetic phenomenon involving both sensory and motor nerve fibers within the motor root of the trigeminal nerve.